Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: The British F-35 B fighter jet that made an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport on June 14 has finally taken off for Darwin, Australia, after undergoing extensive maintenance. The aircraft, which ran low on fuel during a military exercise over the Arabian Sea, was forced to land shortly after taking off from the UK’s aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales. Following the emergency diversion, it remained grounded for nearly a month.

An expert engineering team from the UK, deployed on July 6, carried out crucial repairs and conducted thorough safety checks on the advanced fighter jet. The inspections revealed faults in both the hydraulic and starting systems, which contributed to the delay in the aircraft's return to service. The jet, valued at over $110 million, is among the most sophisticated in the world and forms a vital part of the UK’s air power arsenal.

A spokesperson for the British High Commission expressed gratitude to Indian authorities and the airport teams for their support throughout the repair process. “The UK remains very grateful for the support and collaboration of the Indian authorities and airport teams. We look forward to continuing to strengthen our defence partnership with India,” the official stated, highlighting the cooperative spirit between the two nations.